“The car started speeding towards us and I wanted to get in front of the car so she understood, ‘that isn’t your car, and there’s precious cargo inside,’” said McKay Thomas.

The car was stolen from 22nd and Shotwell Streets at about 6 p.m. on Tuesday. A short time later, a homeowner found the vehicle parked in a driveway at 224 Sweeny St. about two miles away. The children were found uninjured.

The family is still shaken from the experience but the parents have learned a valuable lesson.

“I will always, always turn off the car and lock the door, even if I’m just stepping a few feet away,” said Stephanie Thomas. “It’s a good reminder that you’re not as in control as you might think.

San Francisco police say they are investigating the car for evidence and looking for surveillance video at the scene to help identify the suspect. Police say they are looking for a white female with curly, short brown hair, between 20-30 years-old.

Authorities are asking anyone with information about the vehicle or suspect is asked to contact police immediately.